Mattress Mack, 2 veterans awarded Legion of Honor

HOUSTON – Jim McIngvale, who is better known to Houstonians as Mattress Mack, was among three people who were awarded the Legion of Honor on Saturday.

The award was given during a Four Chaplains Day ceremony. The day recognizes the selfless acts of four World War II military chaplains in 1943 when they gave up their life jackets when a transport ship came under German attack off the coast of Greenland. The chaplains ultimately died as a result.

McIngvale was honored for his philanthropy and selflessness when he opened his furniture stores to shelter victims of Hurricane Harvey.

“This was a truly inspiring day for me,” McIngvale said. “I’m just so honored and thrilled to get this award. I don’t deserve it, but I will certainly take it and cherish it for the rest of my life.”

Veterans Allan Perkins and Charles Miles were also awarded the medal.

The award is meant to honor members of society whose lives model a giving spirit and unconditional service to the community.